Copycat Pizza Hut Priazzo Recipe

Do you remember Pizza Hut’s beloved Priazzo? This legendary deep-dish pizza, introduced in the 1980s, was layered like a pie and packed with cheese, meats, and savory sauce. It was discontinued due to long prep times, but we’re bringing it back with this delicious copycat recipe that captures the nostalgic flavor of the original.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Priazzo recipe brings the best of retro Pizza Hut flavor straight to your dinner table. It’s hearty, family-friendly, and incredibly satisfying. With layers of meats, cheeses, and zesty sauce all tucked between two flaky crusts, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

• 1 box Pillsbury pie crusts (or try our Copycat Pizza Hut pizza dough)
• 1 jar Ragu pizza sauce (or copycat sauce)
• 1 lb sausage or ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced (optional)
• 1 package pepperoni
• 4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions (With Step-by-Step Photos)

Preheat oven to 375°F and grease a deep 9-inch pie pan.

Unroll one crust and line the bottom and sides of the pan.

Cook sausage and onion until browned. Drain fat.

Layer meat in crust.

Add half of the pizza sauce.

Top with 2 cups of mozzarella.

Layer pepperoni slices, followed by half of the second jar of sauce.

Top with remaining cheese, then a final layer of sauce.

Place the second pie crust over the top, crimp the edges, and cut vents.

Bake 35 minutes, until golden brown. Let cool before serving.

Tips for Success

• Use foil to protect crust edges from burning.
• Let the pizza rest for 10 minutes before slicing to hold its shape.
• For extra authenticity, try a six-cheese blend like Pizza Hut used to use.

Priazzo Variations to Try

• Priazzo Roma: A classic combo of green pepper, black olives, mushrooms, pepperoni, Italian sausage, ground beef, mozzarella, onion, and cheddar cheese.
• Godfather: Take Roma to the next level by adding Monterrey Jack, Parmesan, and creamy ricotta for a rich, indulgent bite.
• Milano: Ideal for meat lovers—pile on Canadian bacon and skip the onions for bold, meaty flavor.
• Florentine: Combine creamy ricotta, Parmesan, Romano, mozzarella, and cheddar. Add ham and spinach for a cheesy, savory spin.
• Priazzo Napoli: Add sliced tomatoes to the top layer for a burst of tangy freshness that complements the rich fillings.
• Portofino: Layer chopped red or green bell pepper and onion with sausage for a colorful, flavorful variation that adds texture and sweetness.

FAQs

1. Can I use pre-made dough? Yes! Pre-made or refrigerated dough works well.
2. Make it vegetarian? Skip the meat and load up on veggies and extra cheese.
3. Can I freeze it? Bake, cool completely, and freeze for up to 3 months.

Don’t Forget the Sauce!

Pair your Priazzo with our copycat Pizza Hut sauce for the ultimate 80s pizza experience. It’s also great for dipping breadsticks or veggies.

Share Your Slice of Nostalgia!

Did you love the original Priazzo? Or is this your first time trying it? Share your thoughts, tips, or variations in the comments below. Let’s bring back a taste of Pizza Hut history together!

This recipe is featured in The How To Cookbook for Teens by Julee Morrison. Help your teen gain confidence in the kitchen with 100+ fun, easy recipes!